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Car Smashes Through Fence Into Grandstand at Walcha Rally, Leaving Spectators Critically Injured

Police have launched a crash investigation following witness reports of an earlier on‑track collision.

Overview

  • Shortly after 6:15pm at the Walcha showground, a demolition derby vehicle left the course during the Walcha Motorcycle Rally and struck a mobile grandstand.
  • Authorities and witnesses say the 27-year-old driver had been involved in a collision on the show ring moments before the car breached the barrier.
  • Injury tallies reported by officials vary, with multiple spectators hurt and at least two in critical condition flown to John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle.
  • The critically injured include a 54-year-old man with suspected spinal injuries and a man in his 30s with head injuries, while other patients were taken to hospitals in Walcha, Armidale and Tamworth.
  • Bystanders provided first aid before paramedics arrived, and the NSW Police Crash Investigation Unit is traveling to examine the scene.